The Quick Bio of Lori Greiner: From Inventor to Queen of QVC

Biography of Lori Greiner

Lori Greiner is an American entrepreneur, investor, inventor, and notable TV personality. She is mostly known for her appearance on the ABC TV show “Shark Tank,” but she is also the holder of 120 patents. She even has her own show which made her famous as the “Queen of QVC,” with the audience wholeheartedly loving her.

A woman of many passions, Greiner rose to be a millionaire by having a fully active life. A humanitarian and a well-accomplished businesswoman, Greiner’s sharp instincts brought her the success that she has today. In this article, we will learn more about Lori and how she turned out to be such a hit.

“I had an idea, I was passionate about it and I had to work hard to turn that into a big success and more products.” ~ Lori Greiner

Early Life and Education

Lori Greiner was born Lori Husman in Chicago, Illinois, on the 9^th of December 1969. Her family was quite an accomplished one. Her father, Davis Husman, was a real estate developer, whereas her mother, Lois Arlene Husman, was a well-established psychotherapist. Both of her parents had their own businesses, which eventually inspired Lori to do the same.

When Greiner was 9, she went to live with her mother on the Near North Side of Chicago, after her parents got a divorce. Lori has an elder sister from her parents along with a half-brother from her father’s following relationship.

While she was still in high school, Greiner developed an interest in journalism. She followed on this interest and began attending Loyola University Chicago, where her major was in communication.

At that time, her goal was to become a playwright, and she would do so for a short period. However, while in college, she developed other interests as well.

During her college years at LUC, she also worked for “The Chicago Tribune.” There, she learned how to do marketing for products, bringing them in front of the right people. Soon after, she began crafting and providing costume jewelry to buyers, earning a fair income from this.

“I have an innate instinct for knowing what’s going to work.” ~ Lori Greiner

Early Career and Entrepreneurial Debut

When Greiner graduated in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication, she already had quite some success with her jewelry business. That being said, she continued to be a playwright for a brief time after graduation, as per her original plan.

Her business direction changed in 1996 when she was talking with one of her friends. Having a box of jewelry jumbled up next to them, she began to ponder ways on making things more organized. The idea kept gaining more ground, so she decided to start working on a prototype.

She began designing a plastic organizer for earrings, which was first intended for personal use. However, she liked the result so much that she sent it out to a manufacturer to create a good prototype. Once she had it, she began showing her creation, not only to her friends but also to ladies passing on the street, asking for their opinion.

She gained quite a bit of positive feedback, so she decided to take the next step: commercialization. That being said, before she did this, she had one thing that she needed to do first: create the patent for her organizer.

“I think people don’t like when you’re not confident about what you’re pitching, and they don’t want to invest in you or get behind you.” ~ Lori Greiner

Launch of For Your Ease Only, Inc.

Emboldened by the positive feedback, in 1996, she decided to start her very first company, “For Your Ease Only.” To do that, she first had to take out a $30,000 loan to handle the running expenses. As a salesmanship expert, she also got an order from JCPenney, a store chain that had about 669 stores all over the United States.

Her organizer was a popular hit at JCPenney, which helped Greiner pay back her loan within the first 18 months. With the hardest part over, she began diversifying her line, creating more and more products.

You could find her creations in various categories such as household objects, cosmetic organization, electronics, and travel. She would also sell her products on various retail platforms, generating extra income.

By 1999, For Your Ease Only had already made more than $10 million worth of sales. Her business grew at an enormous rate, with people loving her designs.

Success on QVC

By the time 2000 turned a corner, Greiner had so many patents that she decided to start her show on Quality Value Convenience (QVC), a popular free-to-air TV network.

Her show was called “Clever & Unique Creations by Lori Greiner,” where she presented her best works. The show gained a lot of popularity pretty fast.

Her popularity was so high that Greiner eventually became known as the “Queen of QVC.” Her show kept running for 20 years, during which time she continued creating new patents.

Career on Shark Tank

In 2002, she took on a new cloak when she appeared in the third session of Shark Tank as an investor and guest. Originally, she was there to replace Barbara Corcoran in four Shark Tank episodes.

However, she became an instant hit, which is why they turned her into a regular guest.

While Greiner was on Shark Tank, she was frequently referred to as the “Warm-Blooded Shark,” being very sympathetic on the show. It is believed that her attitude was a result of her own steps to success in life.

Before she became successful, Greiner was originally an inventor, so she knew many of the struggles.

“I’ve achieved a certain amount of success and now I’m thinking about the good things I can do.” ~ Lori Greiner

Accomplishments and Recognition

Throughout her career, Lori Greiner became the holder of 120 patents, making her a highly accomplished inventor and business owner. However, she also made some very smart investments while appearing on Shark Tank.

In 2014, she invested $200,000 in Scrub Daddy, a household sponge company, receiving a 20% in return. To this day, it is regarded as one of the most successful company stories on Shark Tank.

She also published her first book in 2014, called Invent it, Sell it, Bank it! – Make Your Million Dollar Idea into a Reality. It was like a biography, where she talked about her journey as a businesswoman.

The book turned out to be a bestseller, adding even more to her popularity. Her work was recognized by various publications, including Forbes, Financial Times, CNN, Bloomberg, Entrepreneur, and more.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Lori Greiner met the man that would later become her husband, Daniel Greiner, at a bar in Chicago (namely, the “Lincoln Park Bar Kincaid”).

They met in 1996, but the couple only married in 2010. The couple did not have any children throughout their years of marriage.

Greiner and her company make various donations to different charities every year. She went from providing full-ride scholarships to underprivileged women to supporting healthcare workers and first responders.

Legacy and Influence

Greiner made her career into a mission to inspire. She provided inspirational quotes, saying that if you see positive things, you will be more motivated to do positive things as well.

She directed this to many entrepreneur women looking for a breakthrough.

She also preached that if you are lucky enough to be successful, you are responsible for giving back as well. This influenced her to become highly involved and leave her mark in the philanthropic universe.

Conclusion

Lori Greiner is a role model for many people. She proved that you could invent and sell anything that you are passionate about, gaining a lot of success.

She became her own boss, and she used that knowledge to help other people reach the same goal.

“I’ve been making products for so long, I have a gut feel for what is right – what will work and what won’t. I can tell instantly if it’s a hero or a zero. ” ~ Lori Greiner

Key Points

Lori Greiner is a renowned American entrepreneur, inventor, investor, and TV personality.
Known for her appearance on the ABC TV show “Shark Tank” and has 120 patents.
She became famous as the “Queen of QVC” through her own show.
Born in Chicago in 1969 to parents who were both entrepreneurs.
Attended Loyola University Chicago, majoring in communication, and worked for “The Chicago Tribune.”
Started her entrepreneurial journey by designing a plastic organizer for earrings.
Founded her company “For Your Ease Only” in 1996, achieving over $10 million in sales by 1999.
Launched her show on QVC in 2000, which ran for 20 years.
Became a regular investor on “Shark Tank”, known as the “Warm-Blooded Shark.”
Invested in successful companies on Shark Tank, such as Scrub Daddy.
Published a best-selling book in 2014 about her journey as a businesswoman.
Has been recognized by various reputable publications like Forbes and CNN.
Married to Daniel Greiner since 2010 and is actively involved in philanthropy.
Emphasizes the importance of giving back and serves as an inspiration for many entrepreneurs, especially women.

Lori Greiner

Timeline of Lori Greiner’s Life

1969:

Lori Greiner (originally Lori Husman) is born on December 9th in Chicago, Illinois. She is born into an accomplished family: Davis Husman, a real estate developer, and Lois Arlene Husman, a psychotherapist.

Late 1970s:

At the age of 9, Lori moves to live with her mother on the Near North Side of Chicago following her parents’ divorce.

1980s:

During her high school years, Greiner develops an interest in journalism.

Late 1980s to Early 1990s:

Lori attends Loyola University Chicago, majoring in communication with aspirations to become a playwright.
While at LUC, she works for “The Chicago Tribune” and starts her venture into crafting and selling costume jewelry.

1991:

Greiner graduates with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication from Loyola University Chicago. She briefly pursues her interest in playwriting while continuing her jewelry business.

1996:

Greiner’s entrepreneurial direction takes a new turn after brainstorming an idea for an earring organizer.
She takes out a $30,000 loan and establishes her first company, “For Your Ease Only.”
Lori meets her future husband, Daniel Greiner, at the “Lincoln Park Bar Kincaid”.

Late 1990s:

Following the success of her earring organizer at JCPenney, she diversifies her product line.
By 1999, “For Your Ease Only” achieves over $10 million in sales.

2000:

Lori begins her TV show, “Clever & Unique Creations by Lori Greiner,” on Quality Value Convenience (QVC). The show eventually earns her the moniker “Queen of QVC.”

2002:

Greiner joins the cast of “Shark Tank” during its third session initially to replace Barbara Corcoran. Due to her popularity, she becomes a regular on the show.

2010:

Lori Greiner marries Daniel Greiner.

2014:

Greiner makes a $200,000 investment in Scrub Daddy on Shark Tank, which turns out to be one of the most successful deals in the show’s history.
She publishes her book “Invent it, Sell it, Bank it! – Make Your Million Dollar Idea into a Reality,” which becomes a bestseller.

Undated:

Throughout her career, Lori obtains 120 patents and becomes a notable investor and entrepreneur.
Lori and her company contribute generously to various charitable causes, including offering scholarships to underprivileged women and supporting healthcare workers and first responders.

Conclusion: From her early years in Chicago to her success as an inventor, TV personality, and entrepreneur, Lori Greiner’s journey is emblematic of hard work, ingenuity, and perseverance. She has left a lasting legacy as an inspiration for many, especially women entrepreneurs.

Lessons

Perseverance and Adaptability: Lori’s shift from wanting to be a playwright to becoming an entrepreneur showcases the importance of adaptability in life. It’s essential to pivot when passions and interests change.
Innovation from Simple Observations: Lori’s idea for the earring organizer was born from a simple everyday problem. This teaches that successful innovations don’t always have to be groundbreaking; they just need to solve a problem.
Value of Feedback: Before launching her product, Lori sought feedback by showing her prototype to friends and strangers. It’s a lesson on the importance of validation before fully investing in an idea.
Taking Calculated Risks: Lori took out a significant loan to start her business. While risks are inherent in entrepreneurship, it’s crucial to ensure they’re calculated and backed by a solid plan.
Diversification: After her initial success, Lori didn’t settle. She expanded her product line, emphasizing the significance of not putting all your eggs in one basket.
Leveraging Platforms: Lori’s transition to TV through QVC and later Shark Tank underlines the importance of using platforms to amplify reach and impact.
Empathy and Experience: Lori’s demeanor on Shark Tank as the “Warm-Blooded Shark” showcases that it’s possible to be successful in business while maintaining empathy. Her personal experiences helped her connect with other entrepreneurs, teaching the importance of understanding and compassion.
Continuous Learning and Growth: From acquiring 120 patents to writing a best-selling book, Lori’s journey underscores the importance of continuous personal and professional growth.
The Power of Giving Back: Lori’s philanthropic efforts remind us that success carries with it a responsibility to contribute positively to society.
Inspiring Others: Lori’s focus on motivating and empowering especially female entrepreneurs is a lesson on the power of role models in society.
Family and Personal Values: Despite her success, Lori’s relationship with her husband and her family’s background emphasizes the significance of grounding oneself in personal values and relationships.
The Influence of Early Environment: Lori’s parents being business owners played a role in shaping her entrepreneurial spirit, highlighting how one’s environment can impact future aspirations.
Making the Most of Opportunities: Whether it was working for “The Chicago Tribune” or stepping in as a guest on Shark Tank, Lori teaches us to seize opportunities, as they can lead to unforeseen successes.
Legacy Beyond Business: Lori’s impact isn’t just in her products or investments; it’s in the inspiration she provides and the philanthropic mark she’s leaving, which underscores that legacy is multifaceted.

These lessons serve as valuable guidelines for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone seeking to make a positive impact in their domain.

Facts

Lori Greiner is an American entrepreneur, investor, inventor, and TV personality.
Lori Greiner is known for her appearance on the ABC TV show “Shark Tank.”
Lori Greiner holds 120 patents.
She has her own show on QVC.
Lori Greiner was born Lori Husman in Chicago, Illinois, on December 9, 1969.
Lori’s father, Davis Husman, was a real estate developer.
Her mother, Lois Arlene Husman, was a psychotherapist.
Both of Lori’s parents had their own businesses.
Lori’s parents divorced when she was 9 years old.
Lori has an elder sister and a half-brother.
Lori developed an interest in journalism in high school.
She attended Loyola University Chicago with a major in communication.
Lori worked for “The Chicago Tribune” during her college years.
Greiner began crafting and selling costume jewelry during college.
After graduation in 1991, Lori was briefly a playwright.
In 1996, Lori designed a plastic organizer for earrings.
Lori started her company “For Your Ease Only” in 1996.
She took out a $30,000 loan to fund the company.
Her products were sold at JCPenney.
By 1999, her company made over $10 million in sales.
In 2000, Lori started her show “Clever & Unique Creations by Lori Greiner” on QVC.
Lori appeared on Shark Tank in 2002, first as a guest, then as a regular.
Lori invested $200,000 in Scrub Daddy in 2014, acquiring 20% of the company.
Lori published a book in 2014 titled “Invent it, Sell it, Bank it! – Make Your Million Dollar Idea into a Reality.”
Lori Greiner married Daniel Greiner in 2010.
Lori and her company regularly make charitable donations.
She has provided full-ride scholarships to underprivileged women.
Greiner emphasizes the importance of giving back when successful.
Lori is seen as a role model for many aspiring entrepreneurs.

Questions and Answers

The information in this post answers many of the questions about Lori Greiner. In addition, this section provides a summary and any further information.

Questions with Answers from the Text:

Who is Lori Greiner?
- Lori Greiner is an American entrepreneur, investor, inventor, and TV personality, known for her appearance on the ABC TV show “Shark Tank” and as the “Queen of QVC.”
How many patents does Lori Greiner hold?
- Lori Greiner holds 120 patents.
Where was Lori Greiner born?
- Lori Greiner was born in Chicago, Illinois.
On what date was Lori Greiner born?
- Lori Greiner was born on the 9th of December 1969.
What were the professions of Lori’s parents?
- Her father, Davis Husman, was a real estate developer, and her mother, Lois Arlene Husman, was a well-established psychotherapist.
Why did Lori go to live with her mother when she was 9?
- Lori went to live with her mother on the Near North Side of Chicago after her parents got a divorce.
What did Lori study in college?
- Lori studied communication at Loyola University Chicago with an interest in becoming a playwright.
Where did Lori work during her college years?
- During her college years at LUC, she worked for “The Chicago Tribune.”
What product did Lori design that started her entrepreneurial journey?
- She designed a plastic organizer for earrings.
When did Lori start her company, “For Your Ease Only”?
Lori started her company “For Your Ease Only” in 1996.

Which store chain first ordered Lori’s organizer?

JCPenney was the store chain that first ordered Lori’s organizer.

How long did Lori’s show run on QVC?

Lori’s show ran for 20 years on QVC.

Why was Lori referred to as the “Warm-Blooded Shark” on Shark Tank?

Lori was referred to as the “Warm-Blooded Shark” because of her sympathetic nature on the show, stemming from her understanding of the struggles of inventors and entrepreneurs.

In what company did Lori invest in 2014 on Shark Tank?

In 2014, she invested $200,000 in Scrub Daddy, a household sponge company.

When did Lori publish her first book and what’s its title?

Lori published her first book in 2014, titled “Invent it, Sell it, Bank it! – Make Your Million Dollar Idea into a Reality.”

Where did Lori meet her husband, Daniel Greiner?

Lori met her husband, Daniel Greiner, at a bar in Chicago, namely, the “Lincoln Park Bar Kincaid.”

Do Lori and Daniel have any children?

The couple did not have any children throughout their years of marriage.

How does Lori contribute to philanthropy?

Lori and her company make various donations to different charities every year, including providing full-ride scholarships to underprivileged women and supporting healthcare workers and first responders.

What message does Lori convey about success?

Lori believes that if you are successful, you are responsible for giving back.

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